THE world’s largest seagoing paddle steamer will visit Swanage and Poole later this year.
Waverly will sail along the south coast for three weeks between September 4 and 25 from a ports and piers including Southampton, Portsmouth, Yarmouth and along the Jurassic Coast.
Cruise options include cruising along Dorset’s Jurassic Coast or steaming out to view the famous Needles rocks and lighthouse.
Passengers can also choose to step ashore at Swanage and enjoy a combined trip on the Swanage Railway.
This year’s sailing programme builds the “outstandingly successful” 2023 season which saw a 55 per cent increase in passenger journeys.
Paul Semple, general manager for Waverley, said: “We are delighted to be able to further expand and develop Waverley’s sailing programme when she returns to the south coast in September.
“The 2023 season saw record numbers stepping aboard for a truly unique day out on our famous steamer.
“This year we will be operating Waverley along the entire south coast from Penzance to Folkestone as we work to give as many people as possible the opportunity to sail on a paddle steamer.”
This year Waverley holds the prestigious status of being crowned National Flagship by National Historic Ships UK.
The award recognises the breadth and geographic coverage of Waverley’s sailings in addition to the extended sailing programme planned for 2024.
This year also marks the 50th anniversary since Waverley was gifted for £1 to the Paddle Steamer Preservation Society to preserve her for future generations.
Since 1975 the steamer has been operated on a not-for-profit basis to ensure her continued survival as the last of the ship’s kind.
Waverley boasts open promenade decks, a self-service dining saloon, period lounges, a gift shop and an open engine room.
Passengers aboard Waverley are able to watch the engineers at work as they operate the impressive triple expansion steam engine and view the ship’s paddle wheels.
To help mark the 50th anniversary since Waverley was gifted for preservation there are opportunities for children to travel for just £1 on selected sailings.
Tickets for all sailings can be purchased at waverleyexcursions.co.uk or by calling the booking office on 0141 243 2224.
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